Barrier beaches
Introduction
Barrier beaches are strips of land that are parallel to the shore - separated from the main coastline by a shallow lagoon of water. Some barrier beaches are joined to the main coastline whilst others form islands. Those joined at one end are termed spits; if joined at both ends, they are tombolos.
Barrier beaches are depositional features formed of sands and gravels. The beach facing the sea is typically a high energy environment whereas the lagoon behind the barrier is a low energy environment.
In this colourful and informative presentation, Andy Owen considers examples of barrier beaches in Cornwall, the USA and North Norfolk.
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About the Author
Andy Owen
Author / Examiner
Andy Owen is an author who has written several books about
fieldwork. Andy is an assessment expert including experience as a
senior moderator. His book, 'A Level Geography Independent
Investigation', has won a prestigious Geographical Association
award. The book is published by Insight and Perspective.
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